And he said, I may not return with thee, nor go in with thee: neither will I eat bread nor drink water with thee in this place:
And he said, 'I cannot go back with you or come into your house. I will not eat food or drink water with you in this place.'
The man of God is refusing the king's invitation to stay and eat, explaining that he must obey God's specific instructions not to accept hospitality in that place.
📚 Historical Context
This verse comes from the story of a prophet from Judah who was sent by God to confront King Jeroboam at Bethel for his idolatrous worship practices. God had given the prophet very specific instructions not to eat, drink, or return by the same route he came. King Jeroboam had just invited the prophet to his home for a meal and reward after witnessing God's power through the prophet's ministry.
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